AutoCodes – Generic – P256E

P256E Code - Engine Idle Speed Selector Sensor/Switch Circuit Intermittent/Erratic

Quick Answer

The Engine Control Module (ECM) monitors the Engine Idle Speed Selector Sensor/Switch circuit signal. Common causes include Faulty Engine Idle Speed Selector Sensor/Switch, Engine Idle Speed Selector Sensor/Switch harness is open or shorted, Engine Idle Speed Selector Sensor/Switch circuit poor electrical connection. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means: P256E indicates Engine Idle Speed Selector Sensor/Switch Circuit Intermittent/Erratic.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Engine Idle Speed Selector Sensor/Switch, Engine Idle Speed Selector Sensor/Switch harness is open or shorted, Engine Idle Speed Selector Sensor/Switch circuit poor electrical connection.
Severity: High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?: Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

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Code Popularity 3,742

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Intermediate (2 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jan 19, 2019

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
Comments
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Code P256E Description

The Engine Control Module (ECM) monitors the Engine Idle Speed Selector Sensor/Switch circuit signal. The ECM set the OBDII code when the Engine Idle Speed Selector Sensor/Switch signal is out of factory specifications.

OBDII Code P256E - Engine Idle Speed Selector Sensor/Switch Circuit Intermittent/Erratic - AutoCodes.com — P256E Code - Engine Idle Speed Selector Sensor/Switch Circuit Intermittent/Erratic

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P256E?

Faulty Engine Idle Speed Selector Sensor/Switch
Engine Idle Speed Selector Sensor/Switch harness is open or shorted
Engine Idle Speed Selector Sensor/Switch circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P256E?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P256E code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

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About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.